County Attorney Press Releases : El Paso County Attorney's Office, Deceptive Businesshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/tags/El+Paso+County+Attorney_2700_s+Office/Deceptive+Business/default.aspxTags: El Paso County Attorney's Office, Deceptive BusinessenCommunityServer 2007 SP2 (Build: 20611.960)Con Artist Sentenced To 6 Months In Jail After Pleading Guilty Of Swindling El Paso Entrepreneurshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2015/02/19/con-artist-sentenced-to-6-months-in-jail-after-pleading-guilty-of-swindling-el-paso-entrepreneurs.aspxThu, 19 Feb 2015 17:47:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:3506edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=3506http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=3506http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2015/02/19/con-artist-sentenced-to-6-months-in-jail-after-pleading-guilty-of-swindling-el-paso-entrepreneurs.aspx#comments<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced that a northeast resident accused of taking thousands of dollars from local entrepreneurs was recently convicted and sentenced by a County Court judge.</p> <p>On January 28, 2015, Johnny Ray Mills plead guilty to three counts of Deceptive Trade Practices stemming from two different cases.</p> <p>In the first case, Mills plead guilty to one count of Deceptive Trade Practices for taking more than $3,200 from the owners of the restaurant franchise “Wing It,” to secure the rental of non-existent commercial property inside Fort Bliss. The victims also paid more than $300 to advertise their restaurants to soldiers and families at the military base, but the defendant never rendered the services. The offenses occurred between November and December 2013. For this case, County Court at Law #2 Judge Julie Gonzalez sentenced Mills to 180 days in jail.</p> <p>In the second case, Mills plead guilty to two counts of Deceptive Trade Practices for taking almost $600 from the owner of “Tidal Wave Spas and Pool Supplies” to advertise the business at the Freedom Crossing Shopping Center. The incident occurred in November 20, 2013. Mills was charged with one count for offering services he was not authorized to offer, and with a second count for failing to deliver the advertising services he was paid to provide. County Court at Law #2 Judge Julie Gonzalez also sentenced Mills to 180 days in jail for each of the two charges. All the sentences will run concurrently.</p> <p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Bernal said that these sentences should send a strong warning to those thinking about defrauding consumers in El Paso.</p> <p>“Committing fraud against businesses or individuals in Texas, regardless of the amount, is a serious crime. Defendants can be sent to prison for several years,” Bernal said.</p> <p>“If someone feels that has been the victim of an unscrupulous merchant, we are asking them to file a report with the local law enforcement agency as soon as possible, or call our office at (915) 546-2050,” Bernal concluded.</p><p><b><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Johnny%20Mills%20Press%20Release.pdf">Johnny Mills Press Release.pdf</a>&nbsp;</b></p><p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Johnny%20Mills.jpg"><img src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Johnny%20Mills.jpg" border="0" height="644" width="482" alt="" /></a>&nbsp;</p> <p># # #</p>Deceptive BusinessArrestwarrantsEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeJo Anne BernalCounty Attorney's OfficeCounty Attorney Issues Warning To El Paso Residents About Possible Roofing Contractor Scamshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2014/09/18/county-attorney-issues-warning-to-el-paso-residents-about-possible-roofing-contractor-scams.aspxThu, 18 Sep 2014 21:53:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:3449edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=3449http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=3449http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2014/09/18/county-attorney-issues-warning-to-el-paso-residents-about-possible-roofing-contractor-scams.aspx#comments<p>Stormy weather as the one El Paso is experiencing now can produce a big demand for roofing contractors. It is also a great breeding ground for “storm chasers,” fly-by-night roofing contractors who sometimes go door-to-door offering their services enticing residents with incredibly low estimates or offering new roofs paid entirely by the insurance company.</p> <p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal has some recommendations for residents who are having problems with their roofs and are in need of hiring a contractor to fix their leaks:</p> <p>· Hire only licensed or bonded contractors. They might be more expensive, but are the only ones who can offer you some peace of mind in case you are not happy with the repairs.</p> <p>· Do not be rushed into signing any contract, especially if the contractor uses high-pressure sales tactics, such as today-only discounts.</p> <p>· Always sign a detailed contract for the project, and get the terms and any warranties in writing.</p> <p>· Before deciding to hire a contractor, do your homework. Get more than one estimate; ask for references from the companies, and search online for any complaint filed against the company or the individual, particularly with the El Paso Better Business Bureau (<a href="http://www.bbb.org/elpaso/">http://www.bbb.org/elpaso/</a>). You can also call the El Paso County Attorney’s Office at (915) 546-2050 to find out about any pending or previous criminal cases involving a particular contractor. </p> <p>· Never make full payment of the project upfront. A reputable legitimate home improvement company will NEVER ask for full payment upfront. However there are times when it’s industry standard for the homeowner to make a 50% deposit depending on the project, price and/or special order of the materials.</p> <p>· Check with the City of El Paso to determine whether a city permit is needed for the roofing project. If one is required, ask the contractor obtain the permit. This will ensure he is bonded and insured. </p> <p>“Most established roofing companies are trustworthy and professional. Consumers should be wary of an offer that sounds too good to be true – it probably is,” said El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal.</p> <p>Any resident who feels has been the victim of a scam is asked to file a complaint with the El Paso Police Department at (915) 832-4436 or the El Paso Sheriff’s Office at (915) 546-2280. For more information, please call the Criminal Unit of the El Paso County Attorney’s Office at (915) 546-2050.</p> <p># # #</p><p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Roofing%20Contractor%20Scams%20Press%20Release.pdf">Roofing Contractor Scams Press Release.pdf</a>&nbsp;</p>Deceptive BusinessEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeJo Anne BernalEl Paso CountyCounty Attorney's OfficeRemodeler Sentenced To Jail For Engaging In Deceptive Business Practiceshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2013/03/13/remodeler-sentenced-to-jail-for-engaging-in-deceptive-business-practices.aspxWed, 13 Mar 2013 18:10:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:2756edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=2756http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=2756http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2013/03/13/remodeler-sentenced-to-jail-for-engaging-in-deceptive-business-practices.aspx#comments<p style="TEXT-ALIGN:justify;TEXT-INDENT:0.5in;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced the sentencing of a 48-year-old East El Paso resident accused of engaging in Deceptive Business Practices.</font></p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN:justify;TEXT-INDENT:0.5in;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">On March 13, 2013, Adrian Zamarripa, owner of “A to Z Remodeling”, pled guilty in three Deceptive Business Practice cases before County Court at Law #4 Judge Alex Gonzalez. Zamarripa was sentenced to 18 months in jail and a $10,000 fine. </font></p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN:justify;TEXT-INDENT:0.5in;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">The first case involved a victim who paid the Defendant over $100,000 in advance to remodel his home, but the work was never finished. Since some services were delivered, it was determined that the amount of restitution due was just over $75,000. The Defendant repaid the victim $20,500, but thereafter failed to make any additional payments. After pleading guilty in this case, Zamarripa was sentenced to 365 days in jail and a $4,000 fine.</font></p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN:justify;TEXT-INDENT:0.5in;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">In the second case, the victim paid Zamarripa more than $18,000 to remodel her home; however, the job was never completed. In this case Judge Gonzalez sentenced Zamarripa to 365 days in jail and a $4,000 fine.</font></p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN:justify;TEXT-INDENT:0.5in;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">In the third case, the victim paid the Defendant $5,000 to remodel her home and, again, failed to do so. In this case Zamarripa was sentenced to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine. Zamarripa won’t begin serving this sentence until he completes the first two sentences.</font></p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"><font size="3"><font face="Times New Roman">El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal expressed her satisfaction on the outcome of the case. “As a prosecutor, one of my priorities has always been to obtain as much restitution as possible for the victims of deceptive merchants. However, this is not always possible. The victims in these cases will never recover in full their hard-earned money, but at least they got some justice through the court system,” Bernal said.</font></font></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">&nbsp;</font></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"><font size="3"><font face="Times New Roman">Bernal explained that this case illustrates how difficult it is to recover money for victims of unscrupulous merchants. </font></font></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">&nbsp;</font></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"><font size="3"><font face="Times New Roman">“Consumers interested in remodeling their homes need to investigate the reputation of the contractors and be very cautious when paying money up front. We recommend the public not pay the complete amount of the contract until after the job is finished, and the homeowner is satisfied with the quality of the work,” Bernal concluded.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;">&nbsp; </span></font></font></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">&nbsp;</font></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">In addition to the Better Business Bureau, residents interested in investigating the background of a prospective contractor can look up their criminal and civil case histories by visiting the County’s website at </font></span><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/records"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">www.epcounty.com/records</font></span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"><font size="3"><font face="Times New Roman">. </font></font></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman">&nbsp;</font></span>
<p><span style="FONT-FAMILY:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;,&#39;serif&#39;;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA;">Residents who might have fallen victims of fraud or deceptive business practices are asked to contact the Criminal Section of the County Attorney&#39;s Office at 546-2050.</span></p>
<p><span style="FONT-FAMILY:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;,&#39;serif&#39;;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA;"><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Adrian%20Zamarripa.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Adrian%20Zamarripa.jpg" alt="" /></a></span></p>
<p><span style="FONT-FAMILY:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;,&#39;serif&#39;;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA;"><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Zamarripa%20Remodeler%20Sentenced%20Press%20Release.pdf">Zamarripa Remodeler Sentenced Press Release.pdf</a></span></p>Contractor SentencedDeceptive BusinessEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeJo Anne BernalUnscrupulous Remodeler Receives Time In Jail For Engaging In Deceptive Practiceshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2013/02/26/unscrupulous-remodeler-receives-time-in-jail-for-engaging-in-deceptive-practices.aspxTue, 26 Feb 2013 15:24:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:2755edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=2755http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=2755http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2013/02/26/unscrupulous-remodeler-receives-time-in-jail-for-engaging-in-deceptive-practices.aspx#comments<span style="COLOR:black;"><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Jesus%20Cruz.jpg"></a></span><span style="COLOR:black;">
<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced the sentencing of an El Paso resident accused of engaging in Deceptive Business Practices.</p>
<p>On February 26, 2013, 35-year-old Jesus Cruz pled guilty to one count of committing a Deceptive Business Practice, a crime punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine not to exceed $4,000. In addition, Cruz admitted to violating the terms of probation in another Deceptive Business Practice case. &nbsp;</p>
<p>In the new case, the victim paid Cruz $4,000 in advance to remodel his home. The State alleged that the repairs were never delivered. In the older case, Cruz was placed on probation and ordered to pay the homeowner more than $800, but even then failed to do so. In both cases, the Court sentenced the Defendant to 300 days in jail.&nbsp; </p>
<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal expressed her satisfaction on the outcome of the case.</p>
<p>&quot;My office tries to protect El Paso consumers from unscrupulous contractors and con-artists. This case is another example of a legal resource available to bring justice to the victims of El Paso County,&quot; Bernal said.&nbsp; </p>
<p>The El Paso County Attorney&#39;s Office recommends residents who are planning on doing renovations or improvements to their homes, to do some homework before hiring anyone. It is highly recommended to first check the contractor&#39;s references and business record with the Better Business Bureau and with our office. </p>
<p>Homeowners can also look up the criminal and civil case histories of prospective contractors on the County&#39;s website at <a href="http://www.epcounty.com/records">www.epcounty.com/records</a>. </p>
<p>The El Paso County Attorney&#39;s Office warns consumers against paying out large down payments and only if necessary, scheduling ‘progress payments&#39;- periodic payments made only after designated portions of work have been successfully completed. </p>
<p>&quot;Consumers must be very cautious when paying money up front. Once the consumer has given money to an unscrupulous contractor, it is very difficult for us to get the money back even after the Defendant has pled guilty and been placed on probation,&quot; Bernal said.</p>
<p>&quot;We recommend the public not pay the complete amount of the contract until after the job is finished, and the homeowner is satisfied with the quality of the work,&quot; Bernal concluded.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Residents who might have fallen victims of fraud or deceptive business practices are asked to contact the Criminal Section of the County Attorney&#39;s Office at 546-2050.</p>
<p><img style="WIDTH:271px;HEIGHT:281px;" border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Jesus%20Cruz.jpg" width="297" height="336" alt="" /></p></span>
<p><span style="FONT-FAMILY:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;,&#39;serif&#39;;COLOR:black;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA;"># # #</span></p>
<p><span style="FONT-FAMILY:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;,&#39;serif&#39;;COLOR:black;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA;"><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Cruz%20Remodeler%20Sentenced%20Press%20Release.pdf">Cruz Remodeler Sentenced Press Release.pdf</a></span></p>Contractor SentencedDeceptive BusinessEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeJo Anne BernalEl Paso County Attorney To Offer Services to Northeast Residentshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2011/12/01/el-paso-county-attorney-to-open-2nd-satellite-office-now-in-northeast-el-paso.aspxThu, 01 Dec 2011 18:35:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:2035edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=2035http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=2035http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2011/12/01/el-paso-county-attorney-to-open-2nd-satellite-office-now-in-northeast-el-paso.aspx#comments<p>On Friday, December 2, 2011, El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal will hold an Open House for its new office in Northeast El Paso.</p>
<p>The opening of this new office is part of a plan by County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal to provide free services at locations that are closer and more accessible to victims of crime who live in the outlying areas of the County. </p>
<p><b>WHO:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </b><b>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal</b></p>
<p><b>WHAT:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Grand Opening of new office in Northeast El Paso</b></p>
<p><b>WHEN:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </b><b>Friday December 2, 2011, at 10:00 a.m.</b></p>
<p><b>WHERE:&nbsp; </b><b>El Paso County Northeast Annex</b><b></b></p>
<p><b>4641 Cohen St., Suite D (County Veterans Assistance Office)</b></p>
<p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/NE%20Office%20Grand%20Opening%20Press%20Advisory.pdf">NE Office Grand Opening Press Advisory.pdf</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/NE%20Flyer.jpg"><img style="WIDTH:351px;HEIGHT:212px;" border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/NE%20Flyer.jpg" width="2021" height="1411" alt="" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/NE%20Spanish%20Flyer.jpg"><img style="WIDTH:362px;HEIGHT:222px;" border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/NE%20Spanish%20Flyer.jpg" width="1483" height="1204" alt="" /></a></p>Deceptive BusinessMental HealthDomestic ViolenceHot checksEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeJo Anne Bernalel pasoLower Valley Ballroom Administrators Arrested For Deceptive Business Practiceshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2011/06/02/lower-valley-ballroom-administrators-arrested-for-deceptive-business-practices.aspxThu, 02 Jun 2011 21:48:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:1782edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=1782http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=1782http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2011/06/02/lower-valley-ballroom-administrators-arrested-for-deceptive-business-practices.aspx#comments<p>Today El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal announced the arrest of two individuals accused of shutting down their party hall business without notice after taking thousands of dollars in advance payments from unsuspecting consumers.</p>
<p>Mission Valley Ballroom administrator Donna Cortez Flores and ballroom&#39;s manager Ricardo Espinoza were arrested today by County Attorney&#39;s investigators. Flores was arrested around 9:15 a.m. at a residence in East El Paso. Espinoza was detained at his current place of employment in central El Paso.</p>
<p>Police reports indicate that from September, 2008, and up until January 2011, the defendants received more than $98,000 from 36 residents who paid them in advance to hold events at the Mission Valley Ballroom scheduled for 2011. After closing the ballroom at the beginning of this year, the defendants are alleged to have failed to return the money to the victims.</p>
<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal explained &quot;a business owner who takes money in advance, receives that money in trust. If they choose to violate that trust, the law holds them accountable.&quot;</p>
<p>&quot;We allege these defendants violated the law and that trust,&quot; Bernal concluded.</p>
<p>El Paso County Attorney&#39;s Office filed criminal charges in relation to 6 of the victims, and continues investigating the cases for the remaining 30 victims. Additional arrests are likely. </p>
<p>45 year-old Donna Cortez Flores faces six counts of Deceptive Business Practices, a crime of dishonesty punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine not to exceed $4,000. She was booked in the County jail shortly after 10:00 a.m. and her bond was set at $1,800.</p>
<p>45-year-old Ricardo Espinoza faces five counts of Deceptive Business Practices, and his bond was set at $2,500.</p>
<p>Residents who believe they might be victims of this or any other similar case, are asked to contact the Criminal Section of the County Attorney&#39;s Office, at 546-2050. </p>
<p># # #</p>
<p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Donna%20Flores%206-2-2011.jpg"><img style="WIDTH:219px;HEIGHT:227px;" border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Donna%20Flores%206-2-2011.jpg" width="285" height="370" alt="" /></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Ricardo%20Espinoza%206-2-2011.jpg"><img style="WIDTH:218px;HEIGHT:226px;" border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Ricardo%20Espinoza%206-2-2011.jpg" width="425" height="276" alt="" /></a></p>Deceptive BusinessSocorrowarrantsEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeJo Anne BernalCanadian Citizen Featured On El Paso’s Most Wanted In October Sentenced For Deceptive Businesshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2011/03/15/canadian-citizen-featured-on-el-paso-s-most-wanted-in-october-sentenced-for-deceptive-business.aspxTue, 15 Mar 2011 18:12:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:1645edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=1645http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=1645http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2011/03/15/canadian-citizen-featured-on-el-paso-s-most-wanted-in-october-sentenced-for-deceptive-business.aspx#comments<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced the sentencing of a Canadian citizen accused of committing Deceptive Business Practices in El Paso.</p>
<p>This morning, 71-year-old Gordan Gladu received a 331 day sentence after pleading guilty to two Deceptive Business Practice cases, crimes involving fraud and deceit punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine not to exceed $4,000. </p>
<p>Between March and October, 2010, Gladu, who was doing business as G &amp; G Services,&quot; received more than $8,000 from 2 victims to install new windows, but the windows were never delivered.</p>
<p>After accepting the guilty plea this morning, County Criminal Court at Law #1 Judge Alma Trejo sentenced Gladu to 300 days in jail in one case (which involved almost $8,000), and to 31 days in jail in the second case.</p>
<p>Shortly after appearing in Crime Stoppers of El Paso Most Wanted list on October 11, 2010, Gladu was arrested. At the time of his arrest, Gladu was on probation for Theft of Property of more than $20,000 but less than $100,000.</p>
<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal said this case should serve as a warning to contractors who seek to deceive the public. Bernal further advises consumers to be cautious when hiring contractors, landscapers, or other businesses that ask for money in advance, or make promises of huge savings. &nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &quot;Mr. Gladu has a long criminal history and continued to cheat consumers even after being placed on probation. Consumers need to remember that if they pay for work in advance it is very difficult to get their hard-earned money back if the work is never delivered,&quot; Bernal said.</p>
<p align="center"># # #</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Most%20Wanted%20Sentencing%20Press%20Release.pdf">Most Wanted Sentencing Press Release.pdf</a></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Gordon%20Gladu.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Gordon%20Gladu.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>Contractor SentencedDeceptive BusinessEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeJo Anne BernalCounty Attorney Investigators Locate Man Accused Of Writing More Than One Hundred Hot Checkshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2010/09/30/county-attorney-investigators-locate-man-accused-of-writing-more-than-one-hundred-hot-checks.aspxThu, 30 Sep 2010 20:57:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:1479edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=1479http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=1479http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2010/09/30/county-attorney-investigators-locate-man-accused-of-writing-more-than-one-hundred-hot-checks.aspx#comments<p><b>Dozens of local merchants scammed out of thousands of dollars.</b></p>
<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced the arrest of a Horizon City resident accused of scamming dozens of local merchants and landlords out of thousands of dollars.</p>
<p>Forty eight year-old Michael Nowell was arrested yesterday evening on 8 open warrants on charges that range from felony theft, theft by check, and failure to appear in court.</p>
<p>Up until yesterday, Nowell had been arrested twice before on charges of theft by check. On both occasions, the defendant bonded out of jail and never showed up for his court dates. Nowell was able to keep avoiding arrest by constantly moving to different residences, and in the meantime, handing out dozens of insufficient funds checks to landlords, moving service companies, furniture stores, and even a carpeting company.</p>
<p>According to complaints filed with police, Nowell would often wear scrubs, a stethoscope and claim he was a medical doctor to convince his victims of extending him credit or to accept his checks. </p>
<p>As of today&#39;s date, the County Attorney&#39;s Office has received 102 complaints of insufficient funds checks against the defendant. The checks total more than $14,500.</p>
<p>The County Attorney&#39;s Office has also learned that the Pima County Attorney&#39;s Office has several open warrants against Nowell for handing out hot checks to 7 different landlords.</p>
<p>Michael Nowell is currently in the El Paso County jail and his bond has been set at $36,000. The County Attorney is requesting individuals who might have additional complaints against the defendant, to file a report as soon as possible with the El Paso Police Department or the Sheriff&#39;s Office.</p>
<p>&quot;The County Attorney&#39;s Office investigators worked vigorously during several weeks to locate and arrest Mr. Nowell. This case illustrates the level of commitment my office has to combat fraud in our community and to help local merchants who are victims of hot check writers,&quot; El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal said.</p>
<p>&nbsp;# # #</p>
<p><b>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Michael%20Nowell.jpg"><img style="WIDTH:297px;HEIGHT:296px;" border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Michael%20Nowell.jpg" width="297" height="329" alt="" /></a></b></p>
<p><strong>Michael Nowell</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Con-Artist%20Arrested%20Press%20Release.pdf">Con-Artist Arrested Press Release.pdf</a></p>Deceptive BusinessHot checksEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeRemodeler Receives Enhanced Punishment For Engaging In Deceptive Practiceshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2010/08/09/remodeler-receives-enhanced-punishment-for-engaging-in-deceptive-practices.aspxMon, 09 Aug 2010 19:49:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:1320edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=1320http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=1320http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2010/08/09/remodeler-receives-enhanced-punishment-for-engaging-in-deceptive-practices.aspx#comments<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced the sentencing of an El Paso resident accused of engaging in Deceptive Business Practices.</p>
<p>On August 6, 2010, 31-year-old Jesus Piña pled guilty to one count of committing a Deceptive Business Practice, a crime of dishonesty punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine not to exceed $4,000. However, Piña will serve 2 years in prison because the County Attorney&#39;s Office presented evidence that Piña is a habitual offender. </p>
<p>The County Attorney&#39;s Office requested County Court at Law #7 Judge Robert Anchondo to run Mr. Piña&#39;s sentence consecutively with another one year sentence that was imposed the same day on another Deceptive Business case.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </p>
<p>In order to obtain the enhanced punishment, Assistant County Attorney Arne Schonberger demonstrated in court that, since 1999, Piña has accumulated 11 convictions for engaging in various felonies and misdemeanors. </p>
<p>It was presented to the Court that Piña would receive from victims thousands of dollars in upfront payments for construction jobs he never finished. The Court ordered restitution of $4,800 and $9,000 on the two cases today. Upon completion of his sentence, Mr. Piña is scheduled to be surrendered to immigration authorities for possible deportation. &nbsp;</p>
<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal expressed her satisfaction on the outcome of the case.</p>
<p>&quot;My office takes our responsibility of protecting El Paso consumers from unscrupulous contractors and con-artists very seriously. This case is another example of my office&#39;s willingness to consider every available legal resource to bring justice to the victims,&quot; Bernal said.</p>
<p>&quot;If you are planning on doing renovations or improvements to your home, do your homework before hiring anyone.&nbsp; It is highly recommended that you first check the contractor&#39;s references and business record with the Better Business Bureau and with our office,&quot; Bernal added.</p>
<p>Homeowners can also look up on the County&#39;s website at <a href="http://www.epcounty.com/records">www.epcounty.com/records</a> the criminal and civil case histories of prospective contractors. </p>
<p>&quot;In addition to researching your contractor, it is important to lay out when monies will be paid. Consumers must be very cautious when paying money up front. Once the consumer has given money to an unscrupulous contractor, it is very difficult for us to get it back. This is why we recommend the public not pay the complete amount of the contract until after the job is finished, and the homeowner is satisfied with the quality of the work,&quot; Bernal concluded.&nbsp; </p>
<p>The El Paso County Attorney&#39;s Office warns consumers against paying out large down payments and only if necessary, scheduling ‘progress payments&#39; -periodic payments made only after designated portions of work have been satisfactory completed. </p>
<p>Residents who might have fallen victims of fraud or deceptive business practices are asked to contact the Criminal Section of the County Attorney&#39;s Office at 546-2050.</p>
<p>&nbsp;# # #</p>
<p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Jesus%20Jose%20Pina.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Jesus%20Jose%20Pina.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Pina%20Sentence%20Press%20Release.pdf">Pina Sentence Press Release.pdf</a></p>Contractor SentencedDeceptive BusinessArrestEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeLandscaper Accused Of Defrauding Two Homeowners Sentenced To One Year In Prison (Jesus Chavez)http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2010/05/14/landscaper-accused-of-defrauding-two-homeowners-sentenced-to-one-year-in-prison-jesus-chavez.aspxFri, 14 May 2010 15:22:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:1179edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=1179http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=1179http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2010/05/14/landscaper-accused-of-defrauding-two-homeowners-sentenced-to-one-year-in-prison-jesus-chavez.aspx#comments<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced the sentencing of a Horizon City landscaper accused of Deceptive Business Practices.</p>
<p>This afternoon 46-year-old Jesús Chávez received the maximum sentence possible after pleading guilty to two counts of committing a Deceptive Business Practice, a crime of dishonesty punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine not to exceed $4,000. </p>
<p>According to court records, between October 19 and October 24, 2007 Chávez received $6,800 to landscape the front and back of an East El Paso home, but the work was never completed.</p>
<p>Between August and September of the same year, on another unrelated incident, an Upper Valley resident gave Chávez more than $8,500 to landscape the front of his house, but just as in the previous case, the job was never completed.</p>
<p>After accepting the guilty plea, County Court at Law #2 Judge Julie González sentenced Chávez to 365 days in jail for each count, to run concurrently.</p>
<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal said the harsh sentence should send a message to dishonest contractors who prey on unsuspecting consumers. These businesses often promise huge financial savings to the consumer who ultimately ends up with nothing. </p>
<p>&quot;These cases should also warn consumers about the dangers of paying for work in advance, because if the work is never completed, it is very difficult to get their hard-earned money back,&quot; Bernal concluded.</p>
<p align="center"># # #</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Chavez%20Sentence%20Press%20Release.pdf">Chavez Sentence Press Release.pdf</a></p>Contractor SentencedDeceptive BusinessEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeTornillo Resident Sentenced For Deceptive Sale Of Horseshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2010/05/14/tornillo-resident-sentenced-for-deceptive-sale-of-horses.aspxFri, 14 May 2010 15:20:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:1178edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=1178http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=1178http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2010/05/14/tornillo-resident-sentenced-for-deceptive-sale-of-horses.aspx#comments<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced the sentencing of a resident of Tornillo accused of Deceptive Business Practices.</p>
<p>This morning 38-year-old Pedro Buentello pled guilty to 1 count of committing a Deceptive Business Practice, a crime of dishonesty punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine not to exceed $4,000. </p>
<p>According to the police complaint, on September 11, 2008 Buentello offered to sell the victim 45 horses for $2,850. A handwritten contract was signed and the victim paid Buentello $1,400, but the horses were never delivered and the money was never returned.</p>
<p>After accepting the guilty plea, County Court at Law #1 visiting Judge John L. Fashing sentenced Buentello to 300 days in jail.</p>
<p>&quot;The County Attorney&#39;s Office is committed to protect consumers from unscrupulous salesmen who prey on unsuspecting and trusting citizens of this community,&quot; said El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal.</p>
<p align="center"># # #</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Deceptive%20Sale%20of%20Horses%20Press%20Release.pdf">Deceptive Sale of Horses Press Release.pdf</a></p>Deceptive BusinessArrestEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeContractor Sentenced For Deceptive Business Practices (De Campo)http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2010/05/14/contractor-sentenced-for-deceptive-business-practices-de-campo.aspxFri, 14 May 2010 15:15:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:1177edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=1177http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=1177http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2010/05/14/contractor-sentenced-for-deceptive-business-practices-de-campo.aspx#comments<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced the sentencing of an East-side remodeler accused of Deceptive Business Practices.</p>
<p>This morning 33-year-old Maiam De Campo received the maximum possible sentence after pleading guilty to 1 count of committing a Deceptive Business Practice, a crime of dishonesty punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine not to exceed $4,000. </p>
<p>According to the police complaint, on April 28, 2007 De Campo charged an east-side home owner almost $5,200 to remodel a bathroom, however the job was never done.</p>
<p>After accepting the guilty plea, County Court at Law #7 Judge Thomas Spieczny sentenced De Campo to 365 days in jail.</p>
<p>Additionally, De Campo pled guilty to a Class &quot;A&quot; Theft by Check charge after writing insufficient funds checks to two employees of his business &quot;Maiam&#39;s Title and Construction.&quot; Those<b> </b>payroll checks were cashed by a local business that suffered the loss. De Campo was sentenced to a second 365 day concurrent sentence for the theft by checks.</p>
<p>&nbsp;El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal said this maximum sentence of one year in jail should serve as a message to others to deliver what they promise in the market place.&quot;</p>
<p>&quot;Consumers and businesses alike suffer the loss of fraud.&quot; said Jo Anne Bernal.</p>
<p>&quot;Our office prosecutes individuals who defraud merchants with bad checks and fraudulently take money from consumers,&quot; Bernal finalized.</p>
<p>&nbsp; <a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Remodeler%20Sentenced%20Press%20Release.pdf">Remodeler Sentenced Press Release.pdf</a></p>
<p align="center"># # #</p>Contractor SentencedDeceptive BusinessArrestEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeContractor Sentenced For Deceptive Business Practiceshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2009/12/04/contractor-sentenced-for-deceptive-business-practices.aspxFri, 04 Dec 2009 21:05:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:1037edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=1037http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=1037http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2009/12/04/contractor-sentenced-for-deceptive-business-practices.aspx#comments<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced the sentencing of a North-East contractor accused of Deceptive Business Practices.</p>
<p>34-year-old José Martínez pled guilty this week to 2 counts of committing a Deceptive Business Practice, a crime of dishonesty punishable by up to one year in jail and/or fine not to exceed $4,000. According to the police complaint, on December 14, 2007 Martínez charged an east-side home owner $9,550 to fix a roof and build a carport; however the job was never finished.</p>
<p>During the course of the investigation, it was revealed that in his advertisements Martínez falsely claimed he was licensed and bonded.</p>
<p>After accepting the guilty plea, County Court at Law #2 Judge Robert Anchondo sentenced Martinez to 90 days in jail.</p>
<p>&nbsp;El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal said consumers should not only make sure contractors are licensed and bonded, but need to make sure all the permits are filed with the City.</p>
<p>&quot;Con artists will do anything to get their hands on your money, including being dishonest about licenses and bonds. Consumers need to be very careful to hire only reputable businesses and not pay for work upfront,&quot; Bernal said.</p>
<p>&quot;Once a homeowner parts with his money, all he has in return is the hope that the contractor will do what he said he would do. Civil suits against contractors are often a waste of time and money because even if the homeowner wins the suit he frequently cannot collect on the judgment,&quot; Bernal finalized.&nbsp; </p>
<p align="center"># # #</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Roofer%20Sentenced%20Press%20Release.pdf">Roofer Sentenced Press Release.pdf</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Jose%20Martinez.jpg"><img style="WIDTH:307px;HEIGHT:297px;" border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Jose%20Martinez.jpg" width="307" height="357" alt="" /></a>&nbsp; <a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Double%20J%20Construction%20Ad.JPG"><img style="WIDTH:346px;HEIGHT:297px;" border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Double%20J%20Construction%20Ad.JPG" width="1333" height="971" alt="" /></a></p>Contractor SentencedDeceptive BusinessEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeEast-Side Contractor Sentenced For Deceptive Business Practiceshttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2009/12/01/east-side-contractor-sentenced-for-deceptive-business-practices.aspxTue, 01 Dec 2009 22:44:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:1035edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=1035http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=1035http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2009/12/01/east-side-contractor-sentenced-for-deceptive-business-practices.aspx#comments<p>El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal today announced the sentencing of an east-side contractor who remained a fugitive several months after he was scheduled to appear in court to face criminal charges.</p>
<p>24-year-old Daniel Barajas pled guilty this week to one charge of Deceptive Business Practice, a class &quot;A&quot; misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and/or fine not to exceed $4,000.00.</p>
<p>Court records show that Barajas failed to appear for a court hearing in December 2008.&nbsp; He was arrested again on October 6, 2009, and this week County Court at Law #1 Judge Ricardo Herrera sentenced him to six months in jail for the crime of Deceptive Business Practice.</p>
<p>According to the police complaint, on October 11, 2007 Barajas charged an east-side home-owner $6,200 to construct a storage building; however the job was never finished.</p>
<p>&nbsp;El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal said her office is committed to prosecute vigorously these types of crimes. </p>
<p>&quot;Consumers must be very cautious when it comes to giving builders money up front. Once the consumer has given money to the unscrupulous contractor, it is very difficult for us to get it back. This is why we recommend to the public to pay the complete amount of the contract only after the job is finished, and after corroborating the quality of the goods or services received,&quot; Bernal said.</p>
<p align="center"># # #</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Builder%20Sentenced%20Press%20Release.pdf">Builder Sentenced Press Release.pdf</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Daniel%20Barajas.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/Daniel%20Barajas.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>Contractor SentencedDeceptive BusinessArrestEl Paso County Attorney's OfficeEl Paso County Attorney and Texas Attorney General take Action to Halt El Paso County Colonia Developmenthttp://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2009/12/01/el-paso-county-attorney-and-texas-attorney-general-take-action-to-halt-el-paso-county-colonia-development.aspxTue, 01 Dec 2009 22:12:00 GMT3ab87554-d986-410a-839d-5c2bd702654a:1031edominguez0http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=1031http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/commentapi.aspx?PostID=1031http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/archive/2009/12/01/el-paso-county-attorney-and-texas-attorney-general-take-action-to-halt-el-paso-county-colonia-development.aspx#comments<p><b>Developers illegally subdivided
residential lots lacking water, sewage facilities</b></p><p>AUSTIN - Texas Attorney General
Greg Abbott charged the developers of the Galindo Subdivision in western
El Paso
County with violating state
colonia-prevention laws. According to court documents filed in Travis County district court, the defendants
illegally subdivided residential lots and failed to install or bond water and
waste water facilities before selling the lots to unsuspecting purchasers.
</p><p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The state&#39;s enforcement
action, which was filed jointly with El Paso County Attorney José R. Rodríguez,
names Homero R. Galindo, Rosella A. Galindo, Nahum Prieto and Rosella Prieto.
All four were cited for subdividing an eight-acre tract into four lots for
residential use without obtaining the required plat approval from El Paso County Commissioners
Court. Further, the defendants sold the lots without
installing or bonding water and wastewater facilities, a basic requirement for
plat approval. Having an unapproved subdivision lot can bar a buyer from
obtaining needed water and electricity connections.</p><p><br /></p>
<p>Under Texas law, developers in
counties along the Texas-Mexico border must obtain county approval of a
subdivision plat before subdividing and selling residential lots. Obtaining plat
approval secures water and wastewater facilities, and makes the property
eligible for connections to the local electric utility. In Texas, residential
subdivisions near the U.S.-Mexico border that lack adequate water or wastewater
services required by state law are commonly referred to as colonias. Most
colonias lie outside city limits or in isolated areas of a county.
</p><p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The state&#39;s enforcement
action seeks an injunction compelling the defendants to comply with
colonia-prevention laws, as well as an order requiring the developers to file
proper plats with the county and install fully compliant water and sewer
systems. Alternatively, the state seeks refunds for lot purchasers harmed by the
defendants&#39; alleged conduct. The Attorney General also seeks civil penalties of
up to $15,000 for each lot conveyed in violation of the
law.</p><p><br /></p>
<p>The case against the
Galindoses and Prietoses is one of six colonias cases the Office of the Attorney
General has pursued this year. During the 2007 regular session, the Texas
Legislature passed a measure that provides the OAG with additional resources to
prevent unlawful colonia developments. Since Sept. 1, 2007, the OAG has filed 19
enforcement actions involving subdivisions in five counties. Of the 19 petitions
filed, seven cases have been prosecuted to final
judgment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Before purchasing
residential property outside the city limits, border area home buyers should
check with county officials to confirm that the property was legally subdivided
and that the developer has made necessary arrangements to supply required
infrastructure.</p>
<p>Texans can file complaints
with the OAG against developers or sellers who fail to provide water and
wastewater services, or who subdivide land without first obtaining necessary
county approval. Complaints can be filed on the Attorney General&#39;s Web site at
www.texasattorneygeneral.gov or by calling (800)
252-8011.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Office of the Attorney
General also maintains the state&#39;s Colonia Geographic Database, which offers
geographic and descriptive data on more than 2000 colonias in 30 border area
counties. To access the database, or for more information regarding Attorney
General Abbott&#39;s colonias-prevention efforts, visit the &quot;Texas-Mexico Border&quot;
page on the Attorney General&#39;s Web site.</p>&nbsp;
<br /><p><a href="http://www.epcounty.com/CS/blogs/ca_press/El%20Paso%20County%20vs%20%20Galindo%20Lawsuit.pdf">El Paso County vs Galindo Lawsuit.pdf</a>&nbsp;<br /></p>Deceptive BusinesslawsuitEl Paso County Attorney's Office